Homeland has been renewed for a fourth season by Showtime, it has been confirmed.

The third season of the hit US drama, which stars Damian Lewis and Claire Danes, is currently airing on RTÉ Two on Tuesdays.

Showtime's entertainment proxy Davis Nevins said of the news: "Homeland continues to prove its strength for Showtime, and is one of television's most exciting, provocative and widely-discussed shows. It has grown its audience significantly in each of its three seasons."

Another Showtime drama Masters of Sex starring Michael Sheen and Lizzy Caplan has also been granted a second season. It's currently airing on Friday nights on RTÉ Two.

Nevins commented: "The critical and audience reaction to Masters of Sex since its great launch has been incredibly gratifying.

"It's a privilege to get to work with such talented and creative people as Alex Gansa and Michelle Ashford, as well as their tremendous casts. They have each created truly original shows, with distinctive voices that are among the most admired series on television."